Icons is an ongoing feature at IGN Stars, where we chronicle the aforementioned heroes of fandom and their rise to iconic status.

Today's entry is a true definition of a pop culture icon. Batman has ridden a wave of popularity that has lasted some 70 years. That wave shows no signs of cresting with the release of The Dark Knight this week. What better time than now, to look back at Batman's adventures and the colorful characters he's encountered along the way?

Origin

Bruce Wayne was the only son of Dr. Thomas and Martha Wayne, one of the richest families in Gotham City. Despite his vast wealth, Thomas worked as a surgeon. Seeing the hurt and corruption that plagued Gotham from the ground level, Thomas was imbued with a desire to help those less fortunate than himself. This was a lesson he passed down to his son from an early age.

Unfortunately, Thomas' quest was cut tragically short. As they were walking out of a late-night movie, a mugger shot and killed Bruce's parents. A part of young Bruce died with them. Though he had the family fortune to keep him safe and comfortable, Bruce would spend the rest of his life trying to avenge his parents' deaths.

As he grew older, Bruce immersed himself in his studies. He became a brilliant criminologist and detective. He traveled the world seeking the best martial artists, gurus, and warriors. He trained his body to be the peak of human perfection.

As he came of age, Bruce was finally ready to wage war on crime. Still, he needed a symbol – something that would strike fear into the hearts of his enemies. A chance encounter with a bat was all he needed. Since that fateful night, Bruce has transformed into Batman, defender of Gotham's innocent - and an unstoppable plague upon criminals everywhere.